“War Machine” is a hard-hitting track by AC/DC from their 2008 album Black Ice. Written by Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Brian Johnson, the song features a heavy, blues-driven riff and militaristic lyrics that evoke themes of power and destruction. “War Machine” was well-received by fans and critics, standing out as one of the stronger cuts from Black Ice.
It won the Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance in 2010. The song was also used prominently during AC/DC’s Black Ice World Tour and was later included in the band’s Iron Man 2 soundtrack (2010), tying in thematically with the film’s armored superhero. While it wasn’t released as a single, it remains a fan favorite and a staple in AC/DC’s later-era catalog.
War machine war machine
War machine war machine
Make a stand show your hand
Calling a high command
Don't think just demand
I'm like a bird of prey
“Bird of Prey” is a powerful track by Uriah Heep, first released in 1970 on the U.S. version of their debut album, …Very ‘Eavy …Very ‘Umble, and later featured on their 1971 album Salisbury in the UK. Written by Mick Box, David Byron, Ken Hensley, and Paul Newton, the song is known for its soaring vocals, heavy guitar riffs,
and dramatic composition, showcasing the band’s early progressive rock and heavy metal influences. The lyrics, filled with vivid imagery, seem to depict an ominous force or entity descending upon its prey, possibly as a metaphor for oppression or existential dread.
“Bird of Prey” was performed live in Uriah Heep’s early years but did not achieve mainstream single success. However, it remains a fan favorite and one of the defining tracks of their early catalog, frequently included in compilations.
Watches like an eagle from its eyrie
And like a bird of prey
She captures me
But I am older and
More wise than you
Bird of prey
Straight into me you flew
Fly away
“Crave” is a dynamic track by Ted Nugent from his 2002 album Craveman. Co-written by Nugent and Jack Blades, the song exemplifies Nugent’s return to a raw, hard-rocking sound reminiscent of his 1970s work. The lyrics express an insatiable desire, aligning with the album’s themes of primal urges and unfiltered energy.
While “Crave” was not released as a single, Craveman received positive reviews, with Critic Eduardo Rivadavia of AllMusic giving it a positive 4 stars out of a possible 5, “fiercest effort in decades, and certainly his heaviest ever.” The album reached number 20 on the US Independent Albums chart. “Crave” remains a notable example of Nugent’s late-career vigor and commitment to high-octane rock.
I'm gonna live, I'm gonna fly
I'm gonna soar, till the day I die
On the wings of a bird of prey
Hey, hey, hey
You're absolutely what I crave
“Brand New Day” is a track by 10cc from their 1975 album The Original Soundtrack. It was written by 10cc members Kevin Godley and Lol Creme. The song is characterized by its lush arrangements and intricate harmonies, reflecting the band’s signature art rock style. The lyrics convey a sense of optimism and renewal,
emphasizing the possibilities that come with a new beginning. While not released as a single, “Brand New Day” contributes to the album’s critical acclaim, showcasing 10cc’s musical versatility and sophisticated songwriting. The Original Soundtrack is often regarded as one of the band’s finest works, featuring their hit “I’m Not in Love” and highlighting their innovative approach to pop music.
You pull on your breeches and say
Oh well
It's the start of a brand new day
For birds of prey
You live and learn your life away
But there below, your body must go
Against the grain
“When She Comes” is a soulful ballad by Prince, first released on his 2015 album HITnRUN Phase Two. Prince wrote and produced the track, which showcases his signature blend of sensual lyrics and smooth melodies. The song delves into themes of intimacy and desire, featuring lush instrumentation and Prince’s emotive vocal delivery.
An earlier version with different verses was recorded in 2010 and intended for the Welcome 2 America album, which was posthumously released in 2021. While “When She Comes” was not released as a single, it is appreciated by fans for its classic Prince allure and stands as a testament to his enduring artistry.
When she comes
The house is always a mess
She’s cool nevertheless and here’s why
She remains, as we say, a sweet bird of prey
She flies and she’s satisfied
The lyrics convey a sense of disorientation and amnesia, reflecting themes of identity and memory loss. Initially released as a single in the United States and Canada in 1980, a live version from the 1983 album Plays Live was later issued as a single in the UK, reaching number 62 on the UK Singles Chart.
The song has been praised for its dynamic arrangement and remains a notable piece in Gabriel’s discography.
Stop staring at me like a bird of prey
I'm all mixed up, I got nothing to say
I don't remember
I don't remember
Further Reading
Sources
- Wikipedia “Black Ice (album)” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Ice_(album)
- 45 Cat https://www.45cat.com/
- Wikipedia “Bird of Prey (Uriah Heep song)” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bird_of_Prey_(Uriah_Heep_song)
- Wikipedia “Craveman” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Craveman
- Wikipedia “The Original Soundtrack” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Original_Soundtrack
- Wikipedia “Welcome 2 America” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Welcome_2_America
- PrinceVault “When She Comes” https://princevault.com/index.php/When_She_Comes
- Wikipedia “I Don’t Remember (Peter Gabriel song)” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I_Don%27t_Remember_(Peter_Gabriel_song)
